A charity vessel carrying more than 100 migrants has rejected an offer from Spain to dock in Algeciras, citing an "extreme" emergency on board.
The NGO that boat said it will be dangerous for the migrants, most of whom are African, to make the six days' journey to Spain.
The Open Arms boat is currently in limbo off the island of Lampedusa, following Italy's "inconceivable" refusal to allow it to dock.
Óscar Camps, the director of the Spanish-based NGO Proactiva Open Arms, has appealed directly to European leaders to resolve the crisis.
The boat has been in international waters for eight days. Among those on board are 32 children, including nine-month-old twins.
Trump adds seven countries to full travel ban list
Myanmar junta says Suu Kyi 'in good health' after son raises alarm
Family of alleged Bondi gunman unaware of 'radical mindset', say Indian police
Trump orders 'blockade' of sanctioned oil tankers leaving, entering Venezuela
